Returns to Southern Sudan supported with $10.5 million from the CERF

8 July 2011: The CERF provided $10.5 million to support the return of vulnerable Southern Sudanese soon after South Sudan declared its independence in July. South Sudan’s declaration of independence led to heightened tensions not only between the two countries, but also within communities.More than 23,000 people were expected to make the long journey, but they needed urgent assistance to do so safely.

The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) received $1.9 million to support the movement, which included registrations, emergency food and water, and special assistance for the most vulnerable returnees. Some $1.4 million was allocated to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to allow it to provide special assistance to malnourished children, as well as safe water and sanitation facilities for the entire population in transit. Nearly $700,000 from the CERF allowed the World Health Organization (WHO) to provide primary health care services during their relocation.